Today, Cleveland is considered the second poorest large city in the United States, having one of the lowest average household incomes resulting in inequitable access to available human services important in people leading meaningful and healthy lives.

For over 50 years, The Centers has been a community leader addressing the negative outcomes of poverty in the community. At The Centers, it is our mission to fight for equity by healing, teaching, and by inspiring individuals and families to reach their full potential. Our hope is that ultimately this work will cultivate communities that are more equitable, healthier, and prosperous. The Centers better serves the community by creating a single system through which 20,000 Clevelanders annually can access a broad array of services. Those services include:

• Integrated health & wellness: Addressing physical, mental, and behavioral health concerns that impact individuals' abilities to thrive in other areas of their lives.
• Early learning & family support: Helping families and the community recognize that the first 2,000 days of life – from birth to age five – is a critical period of development and growth for children that sets the stage for their future.
• Workforce development: Extending job and career-building opportunities for individuals who struggle to find adequate and sustainable employment and income.
• Residential youth programs: Providing expanded access to behavioral health services and emergency housing for children and adolescents through residential programs.

Volunteers work with children at The Center. (Courtesy photo)